The Chairman of International LifeLine™ talks about how they are providing safety and security for everyone
BY INTERNATIONAL LIFELINE™, IMAGE BY EVABLANCOPHOTOS
As we move through summer, we look back on our June Pride Month with gratitude, celebrating love, diversity, and the progress made in LGBTQIA rights worldwide. However, amidst the rainbow-coloured festivities, it’s essential to acknowledge the challenges that still persist, especially for LGBTQIA travellers venturing abroad.
Recently, the US State Department issued a cautionary warning, highlighting the heightened risks faced by Americans identifying as LGBTQIA when travelling overseas. Unfortunately, despite Pride Month being a time for celebration and empowerment, it often sees a spike in violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA individuals in certain regions around the globe.
In light of these concerns, the necessity for travel protection memberships, such as International LifeLine (“ILL”) becomes increasingly apparent. International LifeLine™ provides its members with safety and security, knowing that in the event of an emergency, they can and will be protected in the event of medical evacuation and/or repatriation; rioting or political or civil unrest; natural disasters; and even in the event of kidnap and ransom. In short, ILL memberships offer an unrivalled safety net, providing LGBTQIA travellers with essential resources, assistance, and support in navigating potentially hostile environments.
Should the need arise, International LifeLine rescues you and takes you to the medical facility of your choice – not just the nearest facility. This is true no matter where you are and no matter where the medical facility is located. Our community, especially in some of the countries we may visit, may have unique medical concerns – ILL memberships alleviate that concern by allowing us to choose the medical practitioners with whom we wish to work.
Underwritten by Lloyds of London and with more than thirty years of experience in the industry, many would think that the membership would cost an exorbitant amount. ILL, however, wanted to and chose to make the memberships available to all. Single trip memberships start at just $8 per person per day and annual individual memberships start at just $329 per year. There are discounted rates for couples and families available as well.
ILL is progressive and they care about our community and, indeed, all communities. Recognising that marriage may not be available to all members of our community, ILL memberships cover couples who have been living together for six months or more and act as if they are married. ILL’s goal is to help protect our very lives.
It’s crucial to recognise that the LGBTQIA community has historically been under served, facing systemic discrimination and marginalisation. As such, initiatives like International LifeLine™’s decision to support the community have added significance. By aligning with organisations like the International LGBTQIA Travel Association (IGLTA) and contributing a portion of proceeds related to the IGLTA to the IGLTA Foundation, International LifeLine™ demonstrates a commitment to not only safeguarding LGBTQIA travellers but also empowering and uplifting the community as a whole.
International LifeLine™’s dedication to supporting LGBTQIA individuals through practical measures and meaningful partnerships sets a commendable precedent. By fostering a safer, more inclusive travel experience for everyone, they contribute to the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance worldwide. Recognising how important this can be for our community, DIVA has secured its readers a 15% discount off ILL memberships, whether single trip or annual. To claim this discount, select your membership on www.internationallifeline.com and on the checkout page enter the promotional code: DIVA.
Now that June is over, let us reflect on Pride Month with both joy and vigilance, acknowledging the progress made while continuing our efforts to protect and uplift the LGBTQIA community, both at home and abroad. With allies like International LifeLine™ leading the way, we can strive for a future where all individuals can travel freely and safely, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
So, in honour of the struggles, and in the wake of new violence against numerous communities, including our own, International LifeLine is providing our readers with a 15% discount on their individual trip memberships and their annual memberships! Plus, sales lead to donations to IGLTA. To support these initiatives, simply go to www.internationallifeline.com, and enter promo code DIVA during checkout!
DIVA magazine celebrates 30 years in print in 2024. If you like what we do, then get behind LGBTQIA media and keep us going for another generation. Your support is invaluable.
